A notable grant of $913,000 from the Government of Japan will aid in the development of cyclone-resilient classrooms at Lomaivuna High School and Ratu Sauvoli Memorial School. The contracts for this funding were officially signed in Suva yesterday, marking a significant advancement in improving educational infrastructure in Fiji.
During a ceremony at his residence in Tamavua, Hiroshi Tajima, the Japanese Ambassador, expressed that this initiative falls under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP). Ambassador Tajima stated, “On behalf of the Government and the people of Japan, I am deeply honored to sign these grant contracts,” emphasizing that the projects reflect the longstanding friendship between Japan and Fiji.
The initiatives at Lomaivuna High School and Ratu Sauvoli Memorial School are the 425th and 426th GGP projects in Fiji, with funding allocated of approximately FJ$403,000 for Lomaivuna High and FJ$510,000 for Ratu Sauvoli Memorial. Each school will receive a fully furnished, three-classroom building constructed from reinforced concrete, specifically designed to withstand the impact of Category 5 cyclones, thus ensuring a safe environment for education.
Ambassador Tajima highlighted the difficulties faced by Lomaivuna High School after a fire in October 2024 resulted in the loss of a school building and essential facilities, which forced students to take classes in temporary tents under challenging conditions. Additionally, Ratu Sauvoli Memorial School has suffered due to the deterioration of a two-storey wooden building from 1970, which poses safety hazards due to decayed floors and walls.
“These projects directly address those challenges,” Tajima affirmed, noting that “education is the bridge to opportunity for every child.” He further emphasized the collaboration necessary to fortify the educational framework in Fiji, stating, “From classrooms to communities, we are building resilience together.” This initiative not only enhances educational opportunities but also fosters resilience against environmental challenges, showcasing a hopeful commitment towards a brighter future for the students of Fiji.